Once locked into place, the panels form a tube that prevents the corn or beans from continuing to move in around the person. People trapped in grain bins can die in two ways: Being crushed by the sheer weight or by suffocation.

"The tube is actually a tool that will actually isolate the grain around the victim," said Ashenfelter.

Firefighters from Goldfield recently trained using the tool.

Firefighters said the tube method is much safer and more efficient than the old way, which including throwing plywood or other objects into the bin to use to stop the grain.

"Where these are made to come in small openings; just snap them together and you've got a useful tool," said Chief Jeff Slaikeu.

The tubes cost about $2,500 each.

The Gold Eagle Co-op bought eight tubes and has donated them to neighboring fire departments, including Goldfield.